THE STORY OF JESUS: Mark 3:7-12
“But he gave them strict orders not to tell others about him.” (Mark 3:12)
Jesus silences the impure spirits, even though what they say is true.
He knows that they are not good press, that they cause more harm than good.
They want to whip up the crowds into rebellious frenzy, to make it harder for Jesus.
They claim the name of Jesus, but do not seek His honour.
As Jesus followers, we have been commissioned to be His witnesses (Acts 1:8).
The church through history has carried the Name of Jesus wherever it went.
But has it always been for His honour, has it always been good press?
The sad fact is many christians have caused more harm than good.
In Jesus’ Name we have enslaved, cheated, taken land and wealth, crushed culture.
Jesus silences demons, but I wonder how many Christians He has wanted to silence.
Claiming Jesus’ Name is not enough, we must model the message of Jesus too.
As those saved by grace, we ought to overflow with the same grace for others.
The world may not be opposed to Jesus, but to the church which spirals for Him.
Jesus is challenging me to be sure my deeds support my words as I witness for Him!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I can see how frustrating this must be. Forgive us for allowing impure spirits to mess up our witness for You. And help us to show You with our actions, not just our words.
The crowds crowded Him.
No withdrawal.
No rest.
The people came from various regions to see and/or to be healed.
Even to touch the Master would bring healing.
And if the impure spirits fell down I am sure that we all fell down and worshiped.
Jesus was/is the Son of God.
I too need to proclaim Him as Lord.
My actions must be like His in bringing in the kingdom but not like the religious leaders of the day living on their pride.
Jesus didn’t.
I can’t.
I need to bring a sacrifice or praise in all I do and say as His follower. My words and deeds need to honour Him and bring other into His presence.
His way and not my own way.
Help me this day Lord to be intune with you as I prepare to live this day in Your presence doing Your will.
1 Come into God’s presence singing
“Alleluia,
alleluia,
alleluia.”
2 Come into God’s presence singing
“Jesus is Lord,
Jesus is Lord,
Jesus is Lord.”
3 Praise the Lord together singing
“Worthy the Lamb,
worthy the Lamb,
worthy the Lamb.”
4 Praise the Lord together singing
“Glory to God,
glory to God,
glory to God.”